Technology

Shocking Price Leak! Will the ROG Xbox Ally Turn the Handheld Gaming World Upside Down?

2025-07-13

Author: John Tan

Price Revealed: Are Gamers Ready to Pay?

In a stunning revelation, leaker eXtas1s has dropped new price details for the much-anticipated ROG Xbox Ally handhelds. According to the Asus Store by MacMan, a trusted Spanish partner, the ROG Xbox Ally X will retail for €599, while the standard ROG Xbox Ally is set to hit a hefty €899. Could these prices scare off potential buyers?

U.S. Pricing: What's the Real Deal?

For American gamers, prices remain in limbo. eXtas1s forecasts potential U.S. prices of $499 and $799, but industry analysts are hinting at even higher figures due to the ongoing tariff chaos affecting electronics. Add to that Microsoft's Holiday 2025 launch window, although insider Jez Corden believes we might see these beauties as soon as October.

Handheld vs. Console: A Whole New Game?

Microsoft unveiled these handhelds during the June 8th Xbox Games Showcase, aiming to shake up the gaming scene without launching a new console. They’re leaning heavily on the existing Asus ROG Ally designs, boasting 7-inch 1080p displays with 120Hz refresh rates—no OLEDs in sight to keep costs in check. Gamers can expect ergonomic grips, tailored for an enhanced gaming experience.

Skepticism Abounds: Can Microsoft Win Over Gamers?

Despite the exciting new direction, skepticism looms large among gamers and industry insiders. Former Microsoft exec Laura Fryer voiced concerns that these handhelds signify a retreat from traditional hardware. She argues that the ROG Xbox Ally series lacks the user-friendliness of classic consoles. Plus, with a pivot to a cross-platform approach, exclusive Xbox titles may dry up, leaving players wanting.

A Bold Move: Competing with the Giants!

In a bid to capture a broader audience, Microsoft promises a full-screen interface that will offer access to various marketplaces. However, pricing could be a pivotal factor in their success. The upcoming, likely lower-priced Nintendo Switch 2, paired with ample AAA game support, poses a serious threat to Xbox's new entry. Add in a fierce competition landscape with the Steam Deck and other Windows-based handhelds, and the future of the ROG Xbox Ally hangs in the balance. Will gamers bite, or will they hold out for something better?